Planning a road trip brings visions of open highways, scenic stops, and adventure. Whether cruising Ohio’s I-71 or crossing state lines, the thrill of the journey is unmatched. But unexpected events—car breakdowns, accidents, or traffic tickets—can turn your dream road trip into a costly hassle.
What Is Travel Insurance for a Road Trip?
Travel insurance for a road trip isn’t the same as car insurance. It typically covers non-driving-specific risks like:
- Trip cancellations or interruptions
- Medical emergencies
- Lost or stolen luggage
- Roadside assistance and rental car damage
Policies range from $20 to $100 depending on coverage and duration. While Ohio law requires auto insurance, travel insurance is optional and adds a layer of protection, especially when you’re far from home.
Common Road Trip Risks
- Breakdowns: Towing or repairs can cost $100–$500.
- Accidents: Crashes result in medical bills, repairs, or lawsuits.
- Tickets: Speeding or texting violations in Ohio can add 2–4 credit points and $150+ in fines.
- Cancellations: Illness or weather might scrap plans and cost non-refundable fees.
- Medical Emergencies: Some out-of-state care may not be fully covered by your health plan.
- Theft: Stolen items may not be included in auto coverage.
With thousands of crashes on Ohio roads yearly, travel insurance may be a smart backup plan.
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
Most travel insurance policies include:
- Trip Cancellation: Reimbursement for prepaid expenses if you cancel for valid reasons.
- Roadside Assistance: Towing, fuel delivery, flat tire service.
- Emergency Medical: Coverage from $10,000–$50,000 for unexpected injuries.
- Rental Car Damage: Covers up to $5,000 in repair costs.
- Lost Baggage: Pays $500–$2,000 for missing gear.
- Accidental Death: Payouts for crash-related fatalities.
Note: Most plans do not cover driving fines or license points. For that, our Ohio BMV-approved $69.95 course offers a 2-point credit.
When Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
Consider buying travel insurance if your road trip involves:
- Long Trips: Multi-state journeys with $1,000+ in costs.
- Old Vehicles: More likely to break down.
- Remote Areas: Far from hospitals or help.
- Cross-State Travel: Different laws increase ticket risk.
- No Roadside/Rental Coverage: Gaps in your auto plan.
A $30 policy may save hundreds in roadside repairs or hotel stays.
When It’s Not Worth It
Skip travel insurance if:
- Your trip is short and local (e.g., a weekend in-state).
- Your auto insurance includes comprehensive roadside support.
- You’re driving on urban roads with fast access to help.
- Your bookings are refundable or flexible.
Alternatives to Travel Insurance
- AAA or Auto Clubs: Roadside assistance, trip planning, and discounts.
- Credit Cards: Some offer rental and cancellation protection.
- Emergency Fund: Save $200–$500 for breakdowns or emergencies.
- Health Insurance: Confirm out-of-state coverage.
- Safe Driving: Apps like Waze help avoid trouble.
Tips to Decide and Prepare
- Compare policies on InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth.
- Read fine print—ensure coverage includes your biggest risks.
- Review your auto and health plans for overlap.
- Pack smart and carry physical/digital proof of insurance.
- Follow traffic laws—avoid texting and speeding tickets.
If ticketed, remain calm and note details for later. Our 2-point credit course can help if points are added to your record.
Long-Term Fallout
Even a small road trip mishap can have long-lasting consequences:
- Points: Stick on your license for 2 years.
- Insurance: Rate hikes of 20–50% annually.
- Suspension: 12+ points results in loss of license.
- Lawsuits: Crashes or injuries may lead to court cases.
Plan Smart—Join Us!
Travel insurance can save your road trip from financial disaster, but smart planning and safe driving are just as important. If tickets or credit points threaten your record, take our Ohio BMV-approved $69.95 remedial course at Online Two Point Driving Classes. Earn a 2-point credit—online, anytime!
Jim Trakas is a licensed instructor with the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Driver Training Program. He has a distinguished history of public service, including his role as a former member of the Ohio House of Representatives and current Councilperson at Large for the City of Independence.
As the founder and owner of the American Online Learning Center, Jim has been providing comprehensive behavioral corrective programming since 2014, helping individuals achieve meaningful personal growth and development.
Jim’s commitment to service extends to his military background, where he has earned several prestigious honors. He was awarded the Ohio Commendation Medal by the Ohio Army National Guard and the Pandemic Campaign Medal by the United States Public Health Service. Additionally, he is an Honor Graduate of the Ohio Military Reserve Training Academy’s Officer Candidate School and a two-time recipient of the Military Proficiency Award, as well as the Military Achievement Award.
